How We Treat GI Upset

Mild cases (often managed at home):

Starve for 12–24 hours (water only).

Bland diet for 3–5 days: boiled chicken + rice or a prescription gastrointestinal diet. Feed small, frequent meals.

Gradually return to normal food over 4–5 days.

Probiotics and gut protectants (e.g. kaolin or slippery elm) may help.

Moderate to severe cases (vet treatment):

Anti-sickness injections

Anti-diarrhoea medication.

Fluid therapy (subcutaneous or intravenous) to correct dehydration.

Blood tests, X-rays, or an ultrasound to find the cause.

Antibiotics or antiparasite treatment if needed.

Take-Home Messages

Most simple cases of vomiting and diarrhoea settle within 24–48 hours with rest and a bland diet.

Never give human medicines (especially Imodium or ibuprofen) without vet advice — they can be dangerous.

Prevention is better: keep rubbish and toxins out of reach, feed a consistent diet, and stay up to date with vaccinations and worming.

Puppies and small dogs can go downhill very fast — don’t wait more than a few hours if they are unwell.

Repeated episodes may indicate a chronic problem that needs investigation.

Pro tip: Keep a packet of plain cooked chicken and rice in the freezer for emergencies, and always have your vet’s out-of-hours number handy